Southern California Prepares for Major Storm with Evacuations Amid Rare Flood Risk

A severe storm is set to impact Southern California, bringing substantial rain and strong winds. This storm, fueled by an atmospheric river, follows a previous system that caused significant flooding and a fatality in Northern California over the weekend. The current storm is expected to begin affecting the California coast from north to south on Tuesday evening.

Storm Details and Flooding Risks

Heavy rain is anticipated in Southern California starting early Wednesday morning, continuing throughout the day. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a Level 4 out of 4 warning, indicating a high risk of flooding affecting nearly six million residents across Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties.

• High-risk flood events occur on less than 4% of days annually.
• These events account for over 80% of flood-related damage and 36% of related deaths.

This marks the first high-risk warning for Southern California since February 5, 2024, which resulted in over 100 mudslides and two fatalities.

Evacuations and Safety Measures

The National Weather Service has issued alerts for potential urban flooding, rockslides, and mudslides. Officials warn these hazards are not confined to areas previously affected by wildfires. California Governor Gavin Newsom has activated state resources in anticipation of the severe weather.

Rainfall rates may exceed 1 inch per hour early Wednesday, notably in the Santa Barbara and Los Angeles County mountains. Such conditions could lead to flash floods and mudslides, particularly in burn scar areas from recent wildfires.

• Evacuation orders have been issued for 383 properties in Los Angeles County.
• Areas affected include the Eaton and Palisades fire zones.
• Evacuations are set to commence at 11 a.m. PT on Tuesday.

Ventura County has also issued evacuation warnings, specifically for the Ventura Beach RV Resort, which will take effect at 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Santa Barbara County has similar warnings, especially near the Lake Fire burn scar.

Wind and Snow Forecasts

In addition to heavy rainfall, strong winds are expected. Mountain areas may experience sustained winds of 30 to 50 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 80 mph. These winds pose additional threats by potentially downing trees and power lines.

Following this storm, another atmospheric river system will arrive on Thursday, continuing through Friday. Total rainfall in Southern California could reach 4 to 8 inches in coastal and valley areas, with mountains possibly receiving 8 to 12 inches.

• Los Angeles could see rainfall equivalent to two months or nearly half a year within a week.
• This storm will also deliver heavy snow to the Sierra Nevada, complicating travel conditions.

As the week concludes, some respite from the persistent storm systems is forecasted for the weekend. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and heed evacuation warnings as conditions evolve.